What Are Some Common Radiant Heating Problems?

Radiant heating systems are a great option for homeowners looking for a more efficient and powerful home heating system. Though they tend to be much more sturdy and reliable than forced air systems, radiant heating systems are just as susceptible to problems as any other heater. Their specific issues tend to be a bit different than other heating systems, however. Let’s take a look at the common problems that affect radiant heating systems.

Leaks

Possibly the most dreaded issue that can affect any hydronic heating system, leaks can drastically decrease the radiant system’s efficiency and cause quite a bit of damage besides. Leaks can happen for any number of reasons, whether because of a faulty pipe or corrosion. The big issue with radiant systems is that the pipes involved are all located behind walls or under the floor. It is difficult to detect leaks in a radiant system, but if you notice water coming up from your floor it’s a pretty good indication that you have one.

Because of their location, leaks in radiant systems can be difficult to get to and fix. In that regard, you’ll just have to trust your professional technician to find the best possible way to repair the leak before it can do too much damage.

Uneven or No Heat

Problems with heat distribution are just as common with other heating systems as with radiant heating. The unique problem with radiant systems is how the flow of regular heat is restricted or cut off. Most often, this is actually due to one or more air bubbles being present in the pipe network, which prevents the water from flowing freely. The way to solve this is to flush all the air out of the system, which you’ll need to have a professional do for you. After that, the issue should be solved. If the problem persists, however, the problem may actually be located in the central boiler.